Super Bowl Mini Calzones

Name: Super Bowl Mini Calzones
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 calzones
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup warm water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup cooked pepperoni slices; 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup marinara sauce

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Super Bowl Mini Calzones for game day because they bring everyone together with their delicious flavors and crispy texture. The combination of gooey cheese, savory meats, and fresh vegetables packed into a golden crust is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings! Whether served with marinara sauce for dipping or on their own, these calzones are the perfect handheld snack that keeps the festivities rolling. I guarantee they’ll be a hit at your watch party!

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:04:12.590Z

When we first tried making these mini calzones, we were blown away by how much flavor they packed. The dough becomes irresistibly crispy while holding in all the savory goodness. I discovered that pre-cooking the filling helps to evaporate excess moisture, preventing soggy calzones. This small step made a world of difference!

Each time we serve them, the compliments come pouring in. I’ve experimented with various fillings, from classic pepperoni to veggie-packed blends, and they always come out perfect. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser, these mini calzones are the way to go!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy, golden crust that's easy to make
Versatile filling options to suit everyone's taste
Perfectly portioned for snacking during the big game

      

Perfecting Your Dough

Achieving the perfect calzone dough is crucial for a delightful texture. The ratio of flour to water affects the moisture content, so be mindful not to add too much water at once. If your dough feels too sticky after kneading, dust it with a little extra flour. Conversely, if it's too dry, add a few drops of warm water while kneading until it's soft and pliable. Properly kneading for about 5 minutes develops the gluten, giving your calzone a chewy, yet tender crust.

Letting the dough rise is essential for developing flavor and texture. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap to keep it warm and humid. A warm spot in your kitchen can help it rise more effectively. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the bowl in an oven preheated to the lowest setting for a few minutes, then turned off, as an ideal rise environment. Keep an eye on it; you want the dough to double in size, which takes about 20 minutes.

Creative Filling Ideas

While our recipe calls for mozzarella and ricotta, you can easily substitute or add other cheeses. Consider using provolone for a sharper bite or goat cheese for creaminess. If you prefer vegetarian fillings, swap the pepperoni for sautéed mushrooms or spinach. The combination of textures and flavors is key; try mixing in olives or artichokes for an extra Mediterranean flair. Experimenting with various fillings is not only fun but also allows you to cater to dietary preferences of your guests.

Be mindful of moisture levels in your fillings as well. If using vegetables like tomatoes or zucchini, prepare them by sautéing to release excess water before adding them to your mix. This will prevent your calzones from becoming soggy. Combine dry and moist ingredients in a ratio that maintains a balanced, if not slightly thicker, filling that holds together well when baked. For an extra burst of flavor, enhance your filling with fresh herbs like basil or oregano.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Super Bowl Mini Calzones:

Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil

Filling

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup cooked pepperoni slices
1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For Dipping

1 cup marinara sauce

Once you’ve gathered these ingredients, you're ready to start creating delicious mini calzones!

Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve perfect Super Bowl Mini Calzones:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.

Cover and let rise for 20 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the mozzarella, ricotta, pepperoni, bell peppers, and Italian seasoning until well combined.

Assemble the Calzones

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After the dough rises, divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into circles, fill with the prepared filling, and fold over to create a pocket.

Seal the edges with a fork.

Bake

Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Enjoy your Super Bowl Mini Calzones with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding different ingredients like spinach or bacon to the filling. Additionally, brush the calzones with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder before baking for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating

After baking, let your calzones cool completely before storing them. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, consider reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore their golden crust and keep the filling warm and gooey. Microwave reheating tends to make them soggy, so I recommend sticking with the oven method whenever possible.

For longer storage, you can freeze uncooked calzones. Assemble them, seal tightly, and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To cook, bake frozen calzones directly from the freezer, adding an additional 5 minutes to the baking time. This way, you always have a tasty snack ready for game day or any casual gathering.

Color and Texture Tips

To achieve a beautiful golden color on your calzones, brush the tops with an egg wash made from one beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water before baking. This not only gives them a glossy finish but also enhances the flavor. If you’re looking for a bit of crunch, you can also sprinkle some sesame seeds or grated Parmesan cheese on top prior to baking for added texture.

Check your calzones towards the end of baking to ensure they don't overcook. You want them to be golden brown, which typically takes around 20 minutes, but all ovens vary slightly. Use a fork to gently press on the edges; they should feel firm to the touch and not yield to your fingers. If they need more time, keep an eye on them and adjust in small increments to avoid burning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! You can use chicken, ham, spinach, or even vegetables like mushrooms and onions.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat calzones, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

→ Can I freeze these calzones?

Absolutely! Once baked, let them cool completely and freeze in an airtight container. Reheat straight from the freezer.